Where Are the Stars? See How Light Pollution Affects Night Skies

Of the many ways Earth is polluted, light pollution may be the least talked about. It's not an illusion; astronomers measure it from one to nine on the Bortle scale, and earlier this year, one study suggested that light pollution may be causing spring to come earlier. This short film, shot mainly in California by Sriram Murali, goes through all the levels of the scale, showing how the view of the cosmos gets better in less light-polluted areas.

The Short Film Showcase spotlights exceptional short videos created by filmmakers from around the web and selected by National Geographic editors. We look for work that affirms National Geographic's belief in the power of science, exploration, and storytelling to change the world. The filmmakers created the content presented, and the opinions expressed are their own, not those of National Geographic Partners.

Know of a great short film that should be part of our Showcase? Email sfs@natgeo.com to submit a video for consideration. See more from National Geographic's Short Film Showcase at documentary.com

Where Are the Stars? See How Light Pollution Affects Night Skies

Of the many ways Earth is polluted, light pollution may be the least talked about. It's not an illusion; astronomers measure it from one to nine on the Bortle scale, and earlier this year, one study suggested that light pollution may be causing spring to come earlier. This short film, shot mainly in California by Sriram Murali, goes through all the levels of the scale, showing how the view of the cosmos gets better in less light-polluted areas.

The Short Film Showcase spotlights exceptional short videos created by filmmakers from around the web and selected by National Geographic editors. We look for work that affirms National Geographic's belief in the power of science, exploration, and storytelling to change the world. The filmmakers created the content presented, and the opinions expressed are their own, not those of National Geographic Partners.

Know of a great short film that should be part of our Showcase? Email sfs@natgeo.com to submit a video for consideration. See more from National Geographic's Short Film Showcase at documentary.com